NAIROBI, Kenya, January 31 – Kenyan Premier League (KPL) CEO Jack Oguda, has called on Kenyan football supporters to rally behind league champions Gor Mahia and GOtv winners AFC Leopards when they represent the country at the continental assignments.
The two teams will be in action next weekend where K’Ogalo welcomes Gabonese side US Bitam in the champions league while their bitter rivals Ingwe, hosts Defence from Ethiopia in the Confederations Cup.
The KPL chief was speaking on Friday when he assured tight security measures will be in place for Sunday’s second edition of Kenya Power Charity Cup to be staged at Nyayo National Stadium.
“I’m sure if we give Gor and AFC the support by cheering them during their continental matches, they will perform better since they will be playing at home.
“All teams are ready to play in the Charity Cup. This is another event that takes place prior the season kicks-off and we urge our fans to turn out in large numbers because security has been taken care of.
“In regard with structure of the competition, we discussed extensively with participating clubs and agreed the tournament will have rolling substitution.
“It’s a good opportunity for coaches to field as many players in the competition because this will give them a chance to gauge their squad before the season begins in a fortnight,” Oguda said.
According to Lang’ata Division Police boss, Titus Wema, over 300 uniformed officers will be deployed at the stadium to reinforce security.
“We have made security arrangements and we will be able to deploy enough personnel including the regular, Administration, undercover and anti terrorist police to secure the event.
“I urge members of the public to feel free and come to the stadium because every one will be protected.”
AFC Leopards will take on Mathare United in the first semi final, before league champions Gor Mahia face defending champions Sofapaka.
The winner will walk away with Sh1m (USD 11,574.08) while second placed pockets Sh600, 000 (USD 6,944.45).
Third and fourth finishers will be awarded Sh300, 000 (USD 3,472.22) each.
The four teams will use the one day tournament to gauge the fitness of their players ahead of the new season that kicks-off on the weekend of February 15.